Riddoch Questions

3 October 2008, Stewart Hosie MP, John Park MSP, Alex Johnstone MSP, and Michael White

Fri, 10 Oct 2008 13:14:00 GMT

The new Scottish Secretary, David Cameron's Conference Speech, under age drinking, and free school meals were the topics. Michael White of the Guardian joined in to pummel the issues of the week in Riddoch Questions.

The Drink and Drugs Aftermath

Mon, 6 Oct 2008 13:26:00 GMT

The Riddoch Questions of 3 October talked briefly about the proposed ban on under 21s buying drink. Needless to say, the young crew of Laura, Sean and Julianne took the opportunity, in Lesley's absence, to give this whole issue a good talking about.

26 September 2008 - Michael Connerty MP, Christine Grahame MSP and Bill Jamieson

Fri, 3 Oct 2008 14:56:00 GMT

Lesley is joined by Michael Connerty MP, Christine Grahame MSP, and Bill Jamieson of the Scotsman after the Labour Conference, HBOS takeover and nuclear power all figured in the week's news. As ever, three strong personalities and a Riddoch Questions that answers all of the questions.

The Outside Broadcast Aftermath

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 16:06:00 GMT

After a fairly spiky Riddoch Questions, the crew discuss politicians having a go at each other, car lights and Lesley makes a plea to anyone holding a 'Question Time' type event. We can come and record you and you get Lesley Riddoch.

19 September 2008 Gavin Brown, Malcolm Chisholm, Tavish Scott, Fiona Hyslop and Susan Deacon

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 13:13:00 GMT

In front of a live audience at the Edinburgh University Students' Association, the panel of 4 MSPs and an ex-MSP tacked some big issues. HBOS, the credit crunch, under age drinking were discussed. Fiona Hyslop announced that the banning off sales to under 21s ( - it made the news!) And the audience were an articulate vocal bunch - we will be hearing more from these young people in the future !

12 September 2008 - Henry McLeish, Polly Toynbee, and Alan Cochrane

Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:02:00 GMT

In the first Riddoch Questions after the summer break, the panel took on Gordon Brown's demise, chain gangs, a Scottish Channel together with the runners and riders for new Scottish Labour leader. It was action packed and full on.

My isn't Lesley looking brown Aftermath

Fri, 12 Sep 2008 19:44:00 GMT

For the first Riddoch Questions, the talk starts with tans and meanders through prisoner builders, ID cards, the Tory bounce and cycling into the hood. Welcome back crew, we missed you.

Historic Scotland Investigation

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 08:25:00 GMT

In this investigation for Radio Scotland, Lesley looks at the role of Historic Scotland in preserving or conserving the 47 thousand listed buildings in Scotland. This portion of the broadcast lays out a series of 'challenging' stories; starting with two sisters and their windows.

1 August 2008 - Joan Burnie, Eddie Riley and Willie Rennie MP

Fri, 8 Aug 2008 16:44:00 GMT

The big topic for the Riddoch Question panelists was the Labour Leadership; norht and south. There were differing views as to whether Gordon Brown should remain in his present situation. Equally, the runners and riders in the Scottish Labour Leadership race were appraised.
Riddoch Questions and the team are taking a short break and will be back live on September 12th and here in cyberspace, a week later.

The End of Term Aftermath

Sat, 2 Aug 2008 16:39:00 GMT

The Riddoch Questions crew were allowed to bring in videos and games for this Aftermath before the summer break. So the discussion turned, naturally, to those leaving, holiday plans and child birth.

July 25 2008 Iain McWhirter, Magnus Gardham, Fraser Nelson and Glasgow East

Fri, 1 Aug 2008 19:04:00 GMT

These three journalists join Lesley in this week's Riddoch Questions and dissect the Glasgow East bye election result.

18 July 2008 - Robert Brown MSP, David Cairns MP, David Mundell MP and Nicola Sturgeon MSP

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 17:01:00 GMT

Lesleyâs guests on Riddoch Questions this week are the Scotland Office Minister and Inverclyde MP David Cairns, Shadow Scottish Secretary and MP for Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale, David Mundell , Robert Brown MSP and Scotlandâs Deputy First Minister and MSP for Glasgow Govan, Nicola Sturgeon.

Bye elections and doughnuts

Fri, 25 Jul 2008 14:30:00 GMT

Scott is mum for the day as Julianne and Sean discuss elections, hot signals and the role of doughnuts in broadcasting.

The Martin Durkin Interview

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 10:20:00 GMT

The Channel 4 documentary "The Great Global Warming Swindle" has been in the news again. Ofcom has published its adjudication of its investigation of complaints. Martin Durkin, the documentary's director and producer, was interviewed for Riddoch Questions, broadcast on 30 May 2007. Here you can hear the extended interview with Martin as Lesley probes the issues.

11 July 2008 Riddoch Questions - Angus Robertson MP, Patrick Harvie MSP and Ross Lydall

Fri, 18 Jul 2008 16:03:00 GMT

Lesleyâs guests on Riddoch Questions this week are SNP MP for Moray, Angus Robertson, Green MSP for Glasgow, Patrick Harvie and London-based Political Editor for the Scotsman, Ross Lydall.

The Conspiracy Aftermath

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 20:08:00 GMT

In this week's Aftermath Sean has been watching TV again and brings up an old 9/11 story. There is a spooky intervention that allows Jules, Scott and Lesley to get back to multiple jobs for our leaders and the other staple fare of Riddoch Questions.

4 July 2008 - Riddoch Questions - Christine May, Joyce McMillan, Robert Crawford

Fri, 11 Jul 2008 13:45:00 GMT

In a week of resignations and Scottish tennis triumph, ex Labour MSP Christine May, Scotsman writer Joyce McMillan and development guru, Robert Crawford joined Lesley to unpick the week's news.

The Murray Mint Aftermath

Fri, 4 Jul 2008 21:49:00 GMT

Sean talks trains, Richard loves the colour of mints, Greg explains what he will be doing on Fridays and Lesley reveals her holiday plans. It's the Murray Mint Aftermath.

27 June 2008 - The Islands Debate

Fri, 4 Jul 2008 15:35:00 GMT

Riddoch Questions went on the road to the Outer Hebrides. Panelists included David MacLennan of SNH, Lionacleit S6 student Kevin Donkers, Jane Farmer of UHI, Gaelic columnist Angus Peter Campbell, Storas Uibhist Chairman Angus MacMillan, and Lochboisdale Community Council chairman Ronald MacKinnon. The subject; "do the islands have an economically viable future ?"

The Island Debate Aftermath

Sun, 29 Jun 2008 15:27:00 GMT

It's starting to be a regular feature here; but this week's Aftermath is a bit of a departure. Riddoch Questions on June 27 was the broadcast of an island debate recorded earlier that week in Benbecula. After the 'BBC' programme was recorded, the microphone stayed on as the audience and panel relaxed to continue the "not for broadcast" discussion. The topics were education, gaelic and depopulation.

20 June 2008 - Riddoch Questions - Pennie Taylor, Shona Robison MSP, Mary Scanlon MSP, Alan Cochrane

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 15:58:00 GMT

Pennie Taylor will be sitting in for Lesley on this weekâs Riddoch Questions and sheâll be joined by Minister for Public Health Shona Robison, Conservative Highlands and Islands MSP Mary Scanlon and Scottish Editor of the Daily Telegraph, Alan Cochrane. Health is on the agenda big time.

The Iceland Aftermath

Tue, 24 Jun 2008 10:57:00 GMT

This is a departure from the usual format of 'Riddoch Questions Aftermath" Over at Riddoch Questions, Pennie Taylor stood in for Lesley as Ms Riddoch tramped around Iceland. However, Lesley took her trusty recorder and in this podcast; Elfa Hlin Petursdottir, Sharon Webb, of Kilmartin Museum in Argyll, Mia Scott of the Highland Buildings and Preservation Trust and Annie MacSween of Lews Castle College in Stornoway all join in a round table discussion. The theme is tourists and the wild.

13 June 2008 - Riddoch Questions - Kevin Williamson, Katie Grant and Alistair Carmichael MP

Fri, 20 Jun 2008 15:53:00 GMT

David Davis, underage sex, drugs, and Europe all featured in this "robust" conversation/discussion about the week's big topics.

The MP and MSPs Aftermath

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 14:00:00 GMT

David, Sean, Scottie and Lesley sit down and discuss whether Riddoch Questions is too tough on participants. The regional wrangle about the BBC and the 'Holyrood versus Westminster' relevance discussion get a good airing.

June 6 2008 - Barack, Brown, Oil and Jonathan Ross

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 10:28:00 GMT

Roseanna Cunningham MSP, Henry McLeish former First Minister, and Fraser Nelson of the Spectator join Iain McWhirter in dissecting the week's news which ranges from the US Election, the PM's troubles analyzed by Paddy Power the bookmaker, Scotland's oil through to BBC remuneration for its stars.

The Oil Fund Aftermath

Fri, 6 Jun 2008 21:58:00 GMT

Oil Funds, Paddy Power, codec, Ian, Jules Sean and Richard are all here. Lesley wasn't and does she listen to the Aftermath anyway ?

30 May Riddoch Questions - Brian Wilson, Bill Jamieson, and John Vine

Fri, 6 Jun 2008 09:59:00 GMT

With a robust panel of an ex Labour Energy Minister, a seasoned Scotsman Executive Editor and a Chief Constable, the programme flew. Topics like oil, energy, and knifes all got a good airing.

The Polite Aftermath - 30 May 2008

Fri, 30 May 2008 19:20:00 GMT

Lesley is joined by Alison, Gregor, Alex and Sean who rattle through what happened on Riddoch Questions. Alison is visiting with young students from Blairgowrie High School and makes a shocking observation. Oh and Sean storms out.

May 23 Riddoch Questions Malcolm Chisholm Murdo Fraser Joan Burnie Alex Hastie

Fri, 30 May 2008 13:03:00 GMT

The day after the Crewe and Nantwich by election, the studio is packed with Labour MSP Malcolm Chisholm, Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser, agony aunt/journalist Joan Burnie and journalist/banker Alex Hastie. The result, the economy and fags all make appearances as the panel sift through the news stories of the week.

16 May 2008 the new format Riddoch Questions

Fri, 23 May 2008 12:25:00 GMT

George Foulkes, Alex Neil, Jim Spence and Philip Campbell join Lesley in the studio in a new format Riddoch Questions. The panel examine the news in a week where Rangers fans trash Manchester, Burma gets worse and the Prime Minister can't get a break.

May 9 2006 The Plastic Bags

Fri, 16 May 2008 17:09:00 GMT

In this week's Riddoch Questions, Duncan Simpson and MSP Mike Pringle are at opposite ends of the 'Plas Tax' debate. Should plastic bags be banned ? It was a fairly emotive debate where compromise seemed impossible.

Codec splitting for beginners

Fri, 16 May 2008 15:18:00 GMT

After a frenetic Riddoch Questions with political heavy weights, there is a much more diverting conversation about codec ( the importance of ) and accents ( the importance of ) . The team, Pat, Alex, Sean and Lesley mull over what the new format programme is like. As ever, there are opinions and humour in equal measure.

2 May 2008 Aberdeen and the Budget

Sat, 10 May 2008 10:55:00 GMT

Cllr Willie Young of Labour and Neil Fletcher of the Lib Dems on Aberdeen City Council are divided over the current budget deficit which threatens services in the city. In a packed Riddoch Questions, there are plenty of callers and some 'spirited' questioning as to how it got so bad.

The Plastic Aftermath

Fri, 9 May 2008 20:37:00 GMT

Martin joins Lesley, Scott and Jules in the pod for a rummage around plastic bags. After a Riddoch Questions that visited some of the 'Plas Tax' issues, this Aftermath was a more scathing discussion about bags, junk and " what are we like ?".

The Aberdeen Aftermath

Tue, 6 May 2008 09:24:00 GMT

The Riddoch Questions struggle with recounting the detail of the Aberdeen programme. Jules gets a critique for her first production outing and there is an explanation for Germaine Greer when you least expect it.

April 25 2008 Caithness Road signs and Gaelic

Fri, 2 May 2008 11:28:00 GMT

The subject of dual language provoked a huge storm when it was proposed in Caithness.This week's Riddoch Questions reflected the debate with heated discussion and everyone had a 'square go'.

The Gaels, Roadsigns and the funniest person on radio

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 21:09:00 GMT

The team had to handle red hot phone lines with lots of people wanting to express their support for dual language road signs. In an Aftermath that detours through language, Latin and 'false friends'; Lesley will make a startling revelation...who is the funniest person on radio....

The Organic Debate

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 20:30:00 GMT

With the Food Standards Agency questioning 'the organic label' as the only natural choice, Mike Small of Fife Diet fame had a lot of explaining in this Riddoch Questions. Iain Mcwhirter was in the chair as farmers, conventional or otherwise, got wellied in.

The Organic Debate Aftermath

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 15:36:00 GMT

Riddoch Questions on 18 April was a serious treat for foodies everywhere. Iain, Jules and Pat sat down in the pod to reflect on the guilt of food.

Should GPs work longer hours ? April 11 Riddoch Questions

Fri, 18 Apr 2008 12:15:00 GMT

George Monbiot and Nicola Sturgeon lock horns in a debate that had the telephone switchboard glowing red hot with callers. Would it make sense for GP surgeries to be open in the evenings or at weekends ? Everyone had an opinion and lots were expressed in this heated Riddoch Questions.

28 March 2008 The Labour Party

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 22:05:00 GMT

Tom Brown asked for the Labour Party to come back. This week's Riddoch Questions started by examining the state of the Labour Party in Scotland.

The Tartan Week versus Scotland Week - 4 April 2008

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 22:00:00 GMT

Riddoch Questions examines the continuing fascination with Scotland and Tartan as the annual Tartan Week gets under way in the New York.

The Doctor will see you now...

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 21:29:00 GMT

The programme was about GPs and the conversation got very heated. What did the Riddoch Questions crew make of this ? Listen and find out.

The Tartan Aftermath

Fri, 4 Apr 2008 18:46:00 GMT

As the strains of 'It's my party" fade away, the crew sit down to discuss Tartan week related issues; clans, the Irish, prisons and presenters.

Linda Fabiani...extra

Fri, 4 Apr 2008 18:04:00 GMT

Due to technical difficulties, it was not possible to get the Minister for Europe, External Affairs and Culture, Linda Fabiani on today's Riddoch Questions programme about 'Tartan Week'. However, Lesley was able to catch up with Ms Fabiani and put some of the questions and issues raised in the programme.

Jim, the reluctant business tycoon

Sun, 30 Mar 2008 18:01:00 GMT

Jim was a drug addict and is now a successful painter/decorator. He would like to expand his business. But is he hard edged enough ? Lesley Campbell takes him to meet the Old Hand who is the 'hairdresser to the stars'; Charlie Taylor. Charlie's advice is not what you would expect. Coupled with Lesley's unique style of inspiration, will Jim go for it ? Listen again to find out. This is the last in the current series which will return in early 2009.

The Labour Aftermath

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 15:45:00 GMT

The Labour Party conference in Aviemore was the starting point for this week's Aftermath. Truth, answering questions and a disappointing lap dance all figure in the minds of the Riddoch Questions crew.

21 March Post Office Closures

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 15:27:00 GMT

After the previous week's discussion about the demise of the pub, this week it is the turn of the Post Office. There are government plans to close more and feelings are running high.

Alastair Knox and the Contact Lenses

Sun, 23 Mar 2008 15:30:00 GMT

Alastair Knox got on a flight without a spare contact lenses container. He had a great product idea and now Lesley Campbell is on his case. She wants to know how he is going to get to market. This is tough love.

14 March - The demise of the Scottish Pub

Sat, 22 Mar 2008 19:31:00 GMT

Alistair Don claims the Scottish pub is done for. The smoking ban and the new Licensing Act have put it on its knees. There is a lively debate as Lesley jumps into the middle !

The Good Friday Post Office Aftermath

Sat, 22 Mar 2008 19:19:00 GMT

The week after discussing the demise of the boozer, it's the turn of the Post Office. The Riddoch Questions posse manage to talk about nearly everything except queues, stamps or postal orders. Which is a blessing for us all because, it leaves more time for kicking politicians, 'capers' and more gossip. As ever, Richard is inclined to use adult terms in descriptions and hence the cherished 'Clean' designation can not be used this week. Caution is urged if you are playing this in the 4x4 on the school run.

Amanda and the 'bump bling'

Sun, 16 Mar 2008 13:22:00 GMT

Lesley meets Amanda Ishaq who thinks pregnant doesn't mean fashion deprivation. Her great idea is 'bump bling' and Rachel Jones helps her make some key decisions.

The Aftermath went to the pub

Sat, 15 Mar 2008 20:42:00 GMT

The discussion on Riddoch Questions was all about the death of the Scottish pub. So the crew took this as the springboard for a discourse about dates, coffee shops and strange tea places.

7 March 2008 Is Fairtrade really fair ?

Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:19:00 GMT

Marc Sidwell and Linda Fabiani, the SNP Government's External Affairs Minister lock horns over Fairtrade. Has the concept delivered or deceived? Listen again as Lesley turns up the heat on a fast'n'furious Riddoch Questions.

Abdullah and the Games Idea

Sun, 9 Mar 2008 11:40:00 GMT

In this episode of New Hands, Abdullah Khan has had an idea that will take computer games into the next generation - but heâs hit a brick wall and needs a cool two million pounds to get over it.
New Hands features owners of new businesses whoâve hit problems they canât solve. Each week Lesley Campbell diagnoses the real challenge facing each ânew handâ? and introduces then to an experienced entrepreneur or âold handâ?.
This week does Ian Ritchie have the spare dosh or a better idea ?

Fair Trade Aftermath

Fri, 7 Mar 2008 16:58:00 GMT

The Fair Trade Riddoch Questions flew along. Scott, Jules, Sean and Lesley reveal the secret of speed in a radio programme and there are the usual revelations about train fares, hot dates and ID cards.

29 Feb 2008 Nick Clegg and Tavish Scott - the Lib Dems

Fri, 7 Mar 2008 13:00:00 GMT

Tavish Scott joins Lesley in the studio at the start of the Scottish Lib Dem conference in Aviemore. Lesley starts by interviewing Nick Clegg, the temperature rises as referenda are clearly on the agenda.

Helen McPhee...the Wilderness Woman

Sun, 2 Mar 2008 15:57:00 GMT

Helen McPhee has a great idea and lots of experience. When Lesley Campbell meets her, Helen has a business plan, a cash flow and the support of her family. But she still hasn't pitched to anyone. With the help of Bill Fleming, this week's Old Hand, Helen starts to feel the pressure. There is a surprise for Helen that jolts her into action.

The Lib Dems' Aftermath

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 16:41:00 GMT

The eve of the Scottish Lib Dems' conference in Aviemore and what better time to talk about Harris Tweed and Liberal backgrounds. Scott, Pat, Lesley and Sean make startling revelations. There are approximately 120,000 podcasts available according to Steve Jobs and this is the only place you will find the word 'Janus' defined. Another first for Feisty.

22 Feb 2008 The Prisons

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 15:05:00 GMT

Iain Mcwhirter, standing in for Lesley, meets Alec Spencer an ex prison governor and the subject is prisons. The news lately, has not been good for the Prison Service with a series of high profile abscondees. Many are questioning the purpose of prison.

The Prisons Aftermath

Sun, 24 Feb 2008 13:03:00 GMT

Iain Macwhirter stood in for Lesley and hosted an interesting Riddoch Questions. Rather than the expected 'hang'em and flog'em' brigade; there seems to have been a more considered audience and this is reflected in this thoughtful Aftermath. As the subject is prisons, there are mature themes...be warned.

The ex models who are Cava

Sun, 24 Feb 2008 11:45:00 GMT

Coila and Karen are Cava, a face to face promotions business that comes face to face with Lesley Campbell. Lesley is a world wise global risk manager and business guru. What the New Hands need is some advice from someone who has been there and they get it from Anna St Clair, founder of the Ceramic Experience.

15 Feb 2008 The Green Tolls

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 13:56:00 GMT

Stewart Stevenson and Alison Johnstone locked horns over the tolls and traffic congestion. Lesley had to jump in from time to time as a lively debate ensued.

The Tolls Aftermath

Sun, 17 Feb 2008 15:32:00 GMT

The week after the tolls came off, Lesley saw a film about peak oil and Richard pondered free sugar at Starbucks; the stage was set for a 'robust' aftermath. The Transport Minister, Stewart Stevenson is mentioned in dispatches and seems to have some fans in the studio. The Greens do less well as Pat observes. But make your own mind up as the Riddoch Questions crew sit down and debrief tolls.

Feb 8 2008 Howard Stapleton and the Ultrasonic Teen Terror

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 14:18:00 GMT

Howard Stapleton joins Lesley to explain his novel way of handling teenagers; ultrasonically. Within days of the topic appearing on Riddoch Questions, the English Children's Commissioner is calling for a ban on the audio device that targets children. Co-incidence; may be but the discussion gets heated as the generations have their say.

Lesley's gone to Riga Aftermath

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 11:22:00 GMT

After the Teen Repellent, Sean, Jules, and Richard have the studio to themselves. Lesley has bolted off to Riga leaving the crew to discuss the niceness of neds, house prices and body piercings. There is a reference to drugs which is intended as a joke.

February 1 2008 - Clinton vs Obama

Fri, 8 Feb 2008 17:33:00 GMT

In a packed and heated Riddoch Questions, Lesley tried to get to the bottom of the Democratic party's dilemma about Hilary Clinton with a number of American guests; campaigners Karin Robinson and Margot Miller, political editor Justin Shrager with Canadian author and Washington based journalist Suzanne Goldenberg adding to a crowded but fascinating programme.

American Election Aftermath

Fri, 1 Feb 2008 16:44:00 GMT

There was a fairly coded Riddoch Questions that prompted Richard to muse about the nature of Americans, Lesley to discuss 'Branded' and Sean to reflect on East vs West side hip-hop. Oh, and mosquitoes for teenagers make an appearance.

January 25 2008 - Cycling

Fri, 1 Feb 2008 14:43:00 GMT

After the tragic death of Jason McIntyre, the Scottish Champion Cyclist, it was an appropriate time to discuss cyclists and motorists. With Anthony Robson, cyclist, in one corner and Baroness Sharples aka 'Baroness Basher' in the other, the stage was set for a great Riddoch Questions.

January 18 2008 Telehealth or Telemedicine

Fri, 25 Jan 2008 19:28:00 GMT

James Ferguson came into the studio to take on the big issue of remote medicine. All of the emotive topics around broadband, A+E closures and health related concerns were raised in a lively Riddoch Questions

Cycling bells .... the Cycling Aftermath

Fri, 25 Jan 2008 18:55:00 GMT

The crew sit down to discuss bells, folding bikes and the impossibility of cycle paths in Glasgow. Naturally enough, parkies get a mention as do baristas as Sean, David, Lesley and Richard lock this Aftermath to a secure railing outside the studio.

Your child is ok..Telehealth Aftermath

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:27:00 GMT

Telehealth was the topic but, actually a studio full of parents meant everyone had a story to tell about the NHS and their child's health care. Be aware. There are adult themes and grown up medical terms are used.

January 11 2008 - Jim Mather

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 13:42:00 GMT

Jim Mather, the Enterprise czar explained mind mapping, broadband speeds and his strategy for taking Scotland forward. Lesley gets stuck in and the subsequent discussion reveals some of the underlying challenges facing the Enterprise minister.

The Aftermath in Lurex

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 17:27:00 GMT

Richard, Sean and Lesley relax in the studio after the Riddoch Questions of January 11th. The mood is irreverent and light hearted; some might say ill informed as they range across; unions, Christmas hits and surprisingly enough - lurex.

December 21 2007 - Captain Rubbish

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 15:20:00 GMT

John Crawford thinks wheelie bins should be emptied biweekly. Ross from Bearsden disagrees. This week's Riddoch Questions has everyone talking rubbish.

The Rubbish Aftermath

Sat, 22 Dec 2007 15:15:00 GMT

The Riddoch Questions crew jumped straight into rubbish and meandered around various body decorations whilst touching all things waste related. Newcomers Pat from Adam Smith and David from Dundee Uni make their debut in this last Aftermath before Christmas.

14 December Martin Ford

Fri, 21 Dec 2007 13:02:00 GMT

A week is a long time in politics and Martin Ford the Aberdeen councillor saw his fortunes change. A golf course, an American billionaire and some very heated debate feature in this week's Riddoch Questions. The producer was heard afterwards to say " Now, that was phone in."High praise indde and you will find out as you listen to Lesley and her guests.

Riddoch Questions the Aftermath Martin Ford

Fri, 14 Dec 2007 22:56:00 GMT

Martin Ford -- the Aberdeenshire councillor whose veto blocked the Trump Golf proposal till the Scottish government called in the plans last week and Martin was removed as head of the councilâs Infrastructure Committee. Did I give him too hard a time? A not inconsiderable flurry of emailers thought I didââincluding one angry caller Oltelia.

December 7 Irvine Welsh

Fri, 14 Dec 2007 17:53:00 GMT

Irvine Welsh, the author of 'Trainspotting' was pretty forthright about drink; it is a human right to get intoxicated. The phone lines lit up and the debate was heated as Lesley Riddoch steered everyone around the subject of the demon drink.

Irvine Welsh and Calvin - Riddoch Questions Aftermath

Sun, 9 Dec 2007 15:11:00 GMT

There is a health warning; Lesley and the team get it wrong. In a Riddoch Questions that deals with drink; there was an embarrassing black out where a technical hitch meant the studio output disappeared into the ether. The posse, in this podcast, wrongly assume that the studio recording will be complete...it isn't and the sharp eared will hear the edit that disguises this dead air in next week's iTunes podcast. However, Sean does explain Calvin and Lesley reveals a different and unexpected side of the author of 'Trainspotting'.

November 30 Murdo Fraser

Thu, 6 Dec 2007 15:28:00 GMT

Murdo Fraser came into the studio to explain why it wasn't fair for Scottish MPs to vote on English matters. The 'West Lothian question' got examined in detail in a discussion that saw everyone with a strong opinion including listeners.

Murdo Fraser, St Andrews Day and Napier students

Sat, 1 Dec 2007 15:01:00 GMT

On St Andrew's Day, Murdo Fraser was the guest. Some Napier University students including Priscilla from China were there to observe. What did they make it ? The subjects for discussion included...discussion versus argument...can the English sing and a Derek Dougan revelation.

November 23 - The Fife Diet

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 10:35:00 GMT

Mike Small thinks we should only eat food from our immediate surroundings. This has been dubbed the Fife Diet and was the subject of Riddoch Questions. Mike did not have an easy time of it...including a withering attack from the students at Baldragon Academy...but importantly what do you think ?

The Fife Diet

Fri, 23 Nov 2007 16:10:00 GMT

It was a fairly sparky old programme and Mike the man with Fife Diet took it on the chin. But, in the aftermath, what did he think? And what didn't get said on the air ? Lesley and the crew discuss Riddoch Questions - the Fife Diet, reveal all and hatch an unusual Burns Supper.

November 9 - Fiona Hyslop

Fri, 16 Nov 2007 14:57:00 GMT

Education was on the agenda when the Education Secretary Fiona Hyslop came into the studio. Class sizes, NEETS, the role of colleges and a host of other topics as Lesley put the issues of the day to her.

Fiona Hyslop ... the phones were ringing

Thu, 15 Nov 2007 13:38:00 GMT

Lesley takes us behind the scenes and explains what happened with Fiona Hyslop...what did happen if you were on the phone trying to speak to the Education Secretary ?...she also talks about some of the programmes coming up in the Riddoch Questions series...each week we try and get Lesley to come to the microphone and tell us a little more...

November 2 Jeremy Paxman

Fri, 9 Nov 2007 15:30:00 GMT

The Scottish raj or the macmafia; whatever it is, Jeremy Paxman has strong views. The conversation starts with the Queen, Royalty and some revelations. The phrase 'you are a lazy journalist' is thrown in at one point. Lesley Riddoch meets Jeremy Paxman and fireworks do happen.

26 October 2007 Nicola Sturgeon

Fri, 2 Nov 2007 13:47:00 GMT

In this episode of Riddoch Questions, Nicola Sturgeon MSP and Deputy Leader of the SNP answers some tough questions about the current Scottish Government's performance to day. Speaking from the Aviemore at the SNP Party Conference, she does not get an easy ride.

October 19 2007 Jeremy Bowen

Fri, 26 Oct 2007 17:18:00 GMT

Jeremy Bowen, the BBC Middle East editor wasted no time getting to grips with Lesley's question; "was TV news guilty of 'dumbing down' ?"

The answer wasn't simple or comfortable.

October 12 2007 Brian Donohoe

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 17:10:00 GMT

The MP Brian Donohoe turned up to assert Proportional Representation and the resultant Councils were not good, to say the least. It was a fractious encounter as Lesley got into the middle and had to pull the various parties apart.

October 5 2007 Ian Paisley

Fri, 12 Oct 2007 09:58:00 GMT

Is Ian Paisley beyond the pale ? In the opening address at this year's Wigtown Book Festival, the Northern Ireland First Minister was in top form. Following up some of his remarks, Lesley met up with Belfast writer, Malachi O'Doherty and took the temperature. The 'Troubles', the new leadership and Ulster Scots were the focal points. In fact, Ulter Scots and 'big jessies' seemed to inflame everyone...

September 28 2007 Germaine Greer

Fri, 5 Oct 2007 11:41:00 GMT

Germaine Greer is no stranger to controversy. In this week's Riddoch Questions, Ms Greer lays into 'ladettes', shares gloomy thoughts about feminism and explains her infamous 'Diana' quote. Well, what would you expect when two feisty women engage ?

September 21 2007 Simon Milne

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 14:17:00 GMT

The Chief Exec of Scottish Wildlife Trust doesn't want Donald Trump and his proposed Aberdeenshire golf course. Lesley gets a variety of opinions from golfers, opponents and even a geologist! Yes, Donald Trump does make an appearance.

September 14 2007 Maureen Moore ASH

Fri, 21 Sep 2007 10:45:00 GMT

Teenagers smoking is the hot issue. Maureen Moore of ASH says 'no', Belinda Cunnison of Pro Choice says 'why not' and some Dundee youngsters say 'double standards'. Christine Grahame SNP MSP also joins Lesley in this lively debate.

September 7 2007 John Vine

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 10:38:00 GMT

Riddoch Questions returns after its summer break with a hard hiting programme about drugs. In the hot seat is John Vine Chief Constable of Tayside Police who argues we should be prescribing heroin to reduce crime. It is a heated debate with some fascinating contributions from Bob Wylie amongst others.

July 27 - Alastair Campbell

Fri, 3 Aug 2007 07:54:00 GMT

Tony Blair's spin doctor was Lesley's guest on Riddoch Questions. He was colourful and controversial. The ensuing discussion about Scottish media was heated and illuminating. This is the last in the current run of Riddoch Questions which returns on September 7 on BBC Radio Scotland. Thanks for listening.

July 20 2007 - Housing

Fri, 27 Jul 2007 12:32:00 GMT

Affordable housing, land banks, and planning constraints all came to the fore when Stewart Maxwell, Communities Minister came into the studio. Lesley and her guests heard some awful stories from young people trying to get on the bottom rung of the housing ladder. Housing is clearly a very emotive subject.

July 13 2007 - Stornoway Sunday Ferries

Fri, 20 Jul 2007 13:48:00 GMT

Lesley is in the Outer Hebrides this week and the talk turns to the Sabbath and ferries.There is a fairly heated debate between a Reverend, a Councillor and a startled MP. In the end, no one did get their Sunday crossing from the Hebridean Festival this year...but who knows about next year.

July 6 2007 - Kenny MacAskill Justice Minister - the Aftermath of the Glasgow Airport Bombing

Fri, 13 Jul 2007 14:32:00 GMT

Lesley meets Kenny MacAskill, the Scottish Justice Minister in the aftermath of the Glasgow airport car bombing. She also visits Dundee Central Mosque and meets the Chariman, Imam and young people - their views make for an interesting reality check.

June 29 2007 Jim Swire and Lockerbie

Fri, 6 Jul 2007 12:26:00 GMT

Against the background of the SCCRC report about the bombing, Jim Swire agreed to come on Riddoch Questions. Lesley handled the whole emotive subject well. There were a few startling revelations.

June 22 Glasgow Waterfront

Fri, 29 Jun 2007 10:00:00 GMT

This was the first outside broadcast of the Riddoch Questions series in Glasgow. Lesley Riddoch and an audience pondered the waterfront, the buildings and the renewal of Glasgow. All from the new riverside setting of the BBC Scotland at Pacific Quay.

June 15 - Alex Neil

Fri, 22 Jun 2007 17:07:00 GMT

Alex Neil joined Lesley Riddoch to talk about Scottish Enterprise. Alex has strong views and is put under some pressure as Robert Crawford former CEO of Scottish Enterprise and Allan Wilson former Enterprise Minister join the debate.

June 8 - Jenny Dawe and the Edinburgh trams

Fri, 15 Jun 2007 09:26:00 GMT

After all the hype around the tram proposals for Edinburgh, the leader of the Council, Jenny Dawe was in fine form. She didn't get a smooth ride from Lesley in this episode of Riddoch Questions. Watch out for the surprising vox pops.

June 1 - The Global Warming Swindle Debated

Fri, 8 Jun 2007 12:13:00 GMT

With a lively audience at the Gardening Scotland show, Lesley unpicks the science and the myth. The expected fireworks with Bob Ward and Martin Livermore were enlightening and educating.

May 25 - Brian Wilson

Fri, 1 Jun 2007 10:33:00 GMT

The former Energy Minister Brian Wilson was Lesley's guest. Naturally enough, the talk turned to nuclear, wind and a series of energy related issues. Brian had a series of remarkable insights.

May 18 Nicol Stephen

Fri, 25 May 2007 13:13:00 GMT

In this Riddoch Questions, the LibDem leader gets taken to task about the coalition talks by Lesley. It is a fascinating encounter and the revelations in the last section poses interesting questions of "what if" and "if only".

May 11 - Alex Salmond

Sun, 20 May 2007 14:06:00 GMT

Riddoch Questions opens with Lesley grilling the SNP Leader Alex Salmond.